“Secondary Cities” That Will Be MAJOR Hot Spots in 2026

Guess who? Raleigh was named a “secondary city” that would be a major hotspot in 2026. House Beautiful shared seven cities worth considering if you are looking for the right balance between hustle and bustle and neighborhood life. Here is what they had to say about yours truly:

Raleigh hums with the quiet confidence of a city on the rise. “The labor market is increasing very rapidly, with a solid foundation for growth,” says Ben Mizes, a real estate agent and founder of Clever Offers. And “the Research Triangle area is a talent magnet,” drawing in students, scientists, and tech innovators who want the energy of a city without the frenzy of a coastal hub.

Between leafy streets, nearby parks, and a dining and arts scene that keeps pace with bigger metros, life here feels balanced. Real estate offers room to grow, too, from renovated historic homes to modern developments, giving newcomers both choice and value as they settle in.

You can read the full article on the House Beautiful website.